Health Library

Vorinostat Oral capsule

What is this medicine?

VORINOSTAT (vor IN oh stat) is a chemotherapy drug. It is used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

diabetes

history of blood clots

history of irregular heartbeat

liver disease

take medicines that treat or prevent blood clots

an unusual or allergic reaction to vorinostat, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with food. Do not chew, crush, or open the capsules. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. Report any side effects. You will need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Talk to your doctor about how many glasses of water to drink each day. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid dehydration.

If the capsules of this medicine is broken or opened, do not touch the capsules or the powder contents of the capsules. If the powder gets on your skin or in your eyes, wash the area well with plenty of water. Call your doctor.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

change in the amount of urine

chest pain

cough

fast, irregular heartbeat

feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

fever or chills, sore throat

increased hunger or thirst

pain, swelling, warmth in the leg

problems with balance, talking, walking

swelling of feet, legs

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

changes in taste

constipation

diarrhea

dry mouth

headache

loss of appetite

muscle aches

nausea, vomiting

stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.